Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College has appointed Dr. Derrick Griffey as its new dean of Academic Programs and Services, effective January 2.
In his role, Dr. Griffey will provide leadership for the College’s largest instructional division, which includes the academic departments of Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Languages and Humanities, Fine Arts, and Business, Legal Studies and Computer Sciences. He will also oversee several academic support units, including the Teaching and Learning Center, Distance Education, Libraries and Learning Resource Centers, the Cardinal Tutoring Center, the Duplication Center, Faculty Development, and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
As dean, Griffey will lead strategic planning and operational oversight for general education, liberal arts, STEM, transfer programs, and Associate of Applied Science degree programs housed within Academics. His responsibilities also include guiding a range of instructional initiatives focused on academic quality, student persistence and completion, and expanding high-quality learning opportunities aligned with regional workforce and transfer needs.
“I am honored to serve Gadsden State in this new role,” Griffey said. “Our academic programs play a vital part in shaping student pathways, whether they are transferring, entering the workforce, or continuing their education. I look forward to supporting our faculty and staff as we strengthen learning opportunities and help more students reach their goals.”
Griffey brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to the position. Prior to his appointment, he served as Director of Distance Education, Faculty Development and Learning Resources at Gadsden State. In that role, he supported the expansion of online learning, coordinated faculty and staff professional development, advanced the use of library resources, and promoted the integration of instructional technologies across the College.
His academic background includes a Ph.D. in instructional technology from The University of Alabama, a master’s degree in history from The University of Alabama, a master’s degree in sociology from Middle Tennessee State University, and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Jacksonville State University. Griffey began his college education at Gadsden State, earning an Associate of Arts degree before transferring to complete his undergraduate studies.
Griffey is also active in statewide initiatives related to teaching excellence, instructional innovation, and student success. He serves as a volunteer community instructor for the OLLI program at The University of Alabama’s Gadsden chapter, supports the United Way of Etowah County, and is a member of the Gadsden Shrine Club.
“I am committed to fostering an academic environment where faculty and staff feel supported, connected and empowered,” Griffey said. “When we work collaboratively and keep students at the center of our decisions, we create meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for success.”
